The electronic stamp is in the mail...
Written: May 25 '00 (Updated May 25 '00)
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Electronic Postage has hit the U.S. Postal service, and it could not have picked a better time. Nowadays, with so many people selling and buying via on-line auctions, this tool is invaluable in avoiding the long lines at the post office, and providing a semi-automated mailing solution without the hassle of meter fees.
One of the reasons I chose stamps.com was because you did not need any special hardware to print the stamps. Just a laser or ink jet printer and the software. The software is very intuitive and even a beginner could quickly understand the menus and how to go about printing. The only hard part is actually registering for the postal license. Many users have bought this product expecting to plug-and-play and go, but before you begin printing postage you must apply for a U.S. Postal Meter License (which is free and can be done through stamps.com).
For those who ship a lot of packages, there are several integrated scales that work well with the service. Or, you can use any postal scale and simply enter the package weight manually into the software. Either way, the software allows for First Class, Priority and Overnight mail to be entered and printed.
You will need to purchase special labels if you are not printing directly onto envelopes. As of this writing, they are starting to trickle into the major office chains (Office Depot, Staples, etc.) but you should expect to have to purchase through stamps.com your initial supply (once the trial ones run out). However, if you mainly use the software for addressing first-class envelopes, you can print directly to the envelope.
Stamps.com does charge a percentage service fee, but the fee is reasonable and there is a ceiling of $19.99 and a minimum of $1.99. If you mail many letters and/or packages, this fee is a small price to pay for not having to run to the post office day after day. Extremely high volume users can purchase the power-plan for a flat-fee of $15.99 a month which includes an integrated scale for free.
Overall, I found stamps.com one of the easiest and hassle-free online postage retails around. The customer service helpline is open 24 hours (via internet or phone) and the ease of use was astounding.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
dmxrob
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Location: Mid Missouri
Reviews written: 36
Trusted by: 20 members
About Me:
Computer programmer from the midwest.
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